Because periodontal disease can sometimes develop slowly, you might not seek treatment to repair your gums as soon as possible. Your gingival tissues provide the critical connection between your teeth and jawbone, but when disease sets in, this connection becomes vulnerable. This means you should take care to maintain the health of your gums at home and attend dental visits on a regular basis. Your oral hygiene routine can remove food and bacterial deposits that lead to plaque formation and subsequent gum infection. Regular dental visits support the health of your gums by inspecting the results of your daily habits and providing cleaning beyond the scope of your toothbrush and floss. Your Ankeny, IA dentist supports your periodontal health with both preventative and maintenance strategies to fight gum disease. We offer deep cleanings to support your health and maintain the connection between your teeth and jaw.
When Gum Disease Strikes
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gingival tissues that surround your teeth. When disease takes hold, inflammation causes your gums to appear red and feel rather sensitive. Your regular brushing and flossing routine may cause your gums to bleed each day and your breath may develop a pungent smell. When the disease enters advanced stages, it enters your jaw and begins to deteriorate the density of the bone that holds your teeth in place. Because this can lead to tooth loss, it is of utmost importance that you visit your dentist to report any symptoms of gum disease. In its first stage, we can reverse gingivitis and prevent possible infection of your jaw. When disease advances, we will put you on a schedule for more involved treatment to control infection and halt its progression.
Deep Cleanings Maintain The Health Of Your Gums
When we detect the more advanced stages of gum disease, we will suggest performing a deep cleaning to maintain your periodontal health. Otherwise known as scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning begins by clearing bacterial deposits both above and below your gumline. We then smooth rough areas on the roots of your teeth to allow the gums to more easily attach themselves and prevent bacteria from reentering below the gumline. After the procedure, your teeth and gums may feel sensitive for around a week, but you will be able to resume your normal oral habits shortly.
Speak With Your Ankeny, IA Dental Team About Caring For Your Gums!
Your gums provide a sturdy connection between your teeth and jaw, but bacterial infection threatens their proper function. Gum disease can even lead to tooth loss when not addressed early, but regular visitation allows your dentist to detect and treat disease. To schedule a visit, call your Ankeny, IA dentist’s office at 515-207-6182. Additionally, we serve patients who live in Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities as well.
